CIGAR FAQ
- GETTING STARTED
-- Lighting the Cigar --
This pre-smoke ritual is one of the most enjoyable aspects of cigar smoking. First, prime the cigar by rotating the end just above the flame, allowing equal exposure to the entire foot of the cigar. This allows the natural oils in the leaves to heat up and prevent a burning haystack of a smoke! Then, without letting the flame actually touch the cigar, hold the flame ½" from the end and draw gently while rotating the cigar to ensure an even burn.
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-- Cutting the Cigar --
Truly a grand moment. To prevent a difficult or tight draw, or an unraveling of the wrapper, be sure not to cut too shallow or too deep. Using a guillotine style cutter, snip the cigar at the shoulder, where the head begins to slope toward the body of the cigar. If you prefer a punch-style cutter, simply poke the sharp end into the head of the cigar, gently twist and remove. Although both of these moves sound like something you'd see in Braveheart, these simple techniques will enhance your enjoyment of fine smokes.
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-- What does Ring Gauge mean? --
Ring gauge simply measures a cigars thickness. The larger or thicker the ring gauge, the fuller the flavor; the longer the cigar, the cooler the smoke. In technical terms, it's a measure of a cigar's diameter where one "ring" equals 1/64th of an inch. So, a 48 ring gauge is 48/64, or 3/4, inch in diameter.
Download and print an actual-size ring gauge guide and ruler.
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-- Smoking Cigars - When to Smoke? --
Smoking a cigar is best done: anytime! Whenever it feels like a good time for a smoke, it usually is. Generally, smoking enjoyment can be optimized after a great meal. Unless you're a long-time connoisseur or are very familiar with the cigar you are about to smoke, don't smoke on an empty stomach, as you may experience some discomfort. Don't inhale either - concentrated cigar smoke in your stomach is no fun. As you smoke, the flavor changes as the cigar becomes shorter, thanks to the intensity and burn of the smoke. Smoke down to the nub? Your choice, but the taste will get pretty hot and harsh down that far.
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-- Evaluating a Cigar --
There are no rules for selecting that perfect cigar, only guidelines. Discovering a cigar that is perfect for you is a matter of taste. How does the cigar look and feel in your hand? Is it oily, dark, light, moist, consistently firm or does it have soft spots? These are a few characteristics that will help determine if a cigar is worthy of being your favorite. Plus, different cigars are appropriate for different occasions. I enjoy short quick smokes in early afternoon, long, flavorful cigars on the golf course, and thick, spicy robustos in the evening. We have samplers and 5-packs to help you widen your horizons if you want to branch into some other brands.
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